Kelera Tinasala, a cashier at Alison Supermarket in Laucala Beach, Suva, remains in disbelief after experiencing a frightening daytime robbery where two armed men threatened her and customers with machetes.
At around 10 AM yesterday, Ms. Tinasala arrived for her regular shift, unaware that she would soon be caught in a harrowing situation. Two masked individuals entered the supermarket, brandishing cane knives, and immediately demanded the handbags of two nearby women.
“I’ve seen robberies like this in movies, but I never expected to witness one firsthand,” Ms. Tinasala remarked, recalling how the armed robbers rushed into the store while customers were waiting at the butcher section. The women from whom the robbers stole reported having a total of $23,000 in cash among their belongings.
The situation escalated as the robbers forced Ms. Tinasala to open the cash register, taking money from it as well. After the robbery, she witnessed the men pushing the taxi driver into the trunk of their getaway vehicle, which they abandoned shortly after.
“It was a terrifying experience for all of us,” she recalled, emphasizing the life-threatening nature of the encounter. Despite the panic, she managed to memorize the taxi’s license plate number and reported it to the authorities. The taxi was later located in Tacirua Heights, with the driver found unharmed inside the trunk.
Following the incident, police have confirmed the arrest of three men linked to the aggravated robbery, although they have yet to determine the total amount stolen. Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to bring those responsible to justice.
Even amidst the chaos, Ms. Tinasala’s quick thinking and courage in a crisis serve as a testament to her character. While such incidents are deeply unsettling, it is reassuring to know that law enforcement is actively pursuing the suspects, and that support systems are in place for those affected by such crimes.
In summary, while the terrifying daytime robbery at Alison Supermarket left witnesses shaken, the swift police response and ongoing investigation offer a glimmer of hope for improved community safety.
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